April 23 is World Book and Copyright Day

by Thomas McKinley

Literature-related events abound in April. Not only does poetry take its annual commemoration this month, but the 23rd day of April marks World Book and Copyright Day. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) notes that the date is considered symbolic for world literature, being the death anniversary of legendary wordsmiths, such as Miguel […]

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Why Bookstores Don’t Want Your Book – Part 2

by Thomas McKinley

As you see the galley proofs of your book cover or lay your hands on the first printed copy with your byline, you feel that euphoric bliss known to authors. More so upon seeing your authored book arranged on bookstore shelves, along with other titles by seasoned writers. One of your ultimate goals is to […]

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Why Bookstores Don’t Want Your Book – Part 1

by Thomas McKinley

So you have pitched your self-published book to bookstores and gotten the cold shoulder. Before you doubt your writer self and give up on writing entirely, Xlibris gives some reasons why bookstores may decline to stock your book, especially if you’re a self-published author. Brooke Warner, publisher of She Writes Press and author of What’s […]

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Xlibris Celebrates Poetry Month, Launches Flash Fiction Contest

by Thomas McKinley

Nearly two decades ago, the largest membership-based nonprofit organization Academy of American Poets founded April as the National Poetry Month. The celebration is considered the world’s largest, with “schools, publishers, libraries, booksellers, and poets celebrating poetry’s vital place in culture.” The 1996-inaugurated event was inspired by other national celebrations, including Black History Month in February […]

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